The Boat of Theseus

When something is replaced entirely while retaining the same properties, is it the same thing it once was? This is the paradox known as the Boat of Theseus where if we have a boat that has all its original parts replaced over time we ponder whether this really is the same boat. The problem we face here is that what is essentially the components that build up the boat originally are now completely gone but it retains the same look and same use as the original boat. But does this make it the same Boat of Theseus?

When we look at from the perspective of reality and science I feel that one may not consider it to be the original boat as every original piece is different. It is physically made of different pieces of matter which build up what we know as the boat. But then again, this would be hypocritical to our perspective of our own identity; cells in our body constantly get replaced by other cells, atoms are constantly changing in our body, energy is constantly changing, so how are we sure that what makes ourselves is truly who we are from a scientific point of view. This would mean that this boat will be different but the idea that every passing second we ourselves lose the right to the identity we hold, becoming a different person in this viewpoint.

Another way we may face this problem is to look at it from a utility standpoint as what we see is basically the same boat providing the same functions in the same way. From here, the boat would be exactly the same as it retains all the same functions as it originally did in the first place making it utility-wise the same. However, this would mean that copies of something retain the same identity when they are of the same model and function. What I mean by this is the creation of another Boat of Theseus for example where it is an exact copy of the original. Would it be the same boat then following this logic? Would an exact clone of yourself be you or its own separate entity? I think that from this view, the only weakness is the generalization of an objects functions and appearance representing its identity. This rationalizing of identity is not without benefit as nothing can truly be exactly the same as in reality things constantly change within us atomically.

Finally, I would like to give my opinion on this subject where I feel that a mix of both perspectives can be incorporated as there is the idea that for something to be the same it must retain the same appearance and functions at most. The idea of reality being placed into this is a more subjective view as replacing original things with copies provides the same look and functions but not the original matter it was comprised of. I feel in this matter then I tend to look towards the idea that what is the same is something that retains the same looks and utility. Ultimately, to answer my question before, a clone of myself from my thoughts would be just another me as they are version of me only comprised of different matter. Thanks for reading this latest Cryan Times post and have a good day!